42 DECIBEL-3

42 DECIBEL

"Overloaded"

By Professor Jocko

There are many different musical combinations in today’s modern rock scene; some which are experimental and some that prove to stand the test of time. It was not too long ago that I heard a country western rap song…which I found to be something that I could definitely do without, seeing as it combined both of my least favorite styles. 42 Decibel has some very distinct notable features, both with the music and the writing of the lyrics, which possess a classic rock-blues influence, with elements of what I consider to be a slight punk influence where vocals are concerned. It isn’t very evident at first, but as you progress through several tracks will probably pick up on it.

Upon first listen, you may think that these guys may have started as an AC/DC cover band, as the music reflects the qualities of the Bon Scott era more specifically. The writing of the music itself has some potential for greatness, with the exception of the vocals which are comparable to a combination of Bob Dylan and Eric Cartman from the South Park cartoons. The intro song is called “Whiskey Joint”, and does exhibit some genuine qualities towards a classic rock sound. The vocals seem to have a raw edge which although may fit the style of the music, certainly doesn’t compliment it. The following track, “Dangerous Mess” has a certain bluesy feel to it, which seems to focus more on the flow of the song, but tends to get a little muddied towards the end with a faster pace rhythm and jumbled vocals.

Consecutive songs follow suit, where the music has defining characteristics which are largely based on melody; an even mix of guitar and drums, lightly supported by the bass guitar to hold it all together. The vocals are somewhat tolerable through parts of the beginning of the songs, but become tiresome after listening to every word sung in the same key over and over. There is a song; however that exhibits a few bright spots of a much needed change called “Double Itch Blues”. Perhaps it’s because of the fact that the music does rely on the title to give it strength, and the vocals are a little less obtrusive in certain areas. The finale of the album is titled “Cannon Fodder”, which comes as a triumphant conclusion to an album that speaks to a listener with an acquired taste as the guitar solo carries on gracefully to the end of the song.